Widow thanks fans for Cyrille Regis support at West Brom

The Baggies take on Coventry City at The Hawthorns in what is hoped will be the first annual celebration of Cyrille Regis, the legendary striker who starred for both clubs.

Julia, Cyrille’s widow, said the family have continued to be overwhelmed by the level of support their have received from supporters since his untimely passing in January.

WATCH her message to supporters:

She said: “As a family we remain as grateful for all the love and support you all show to us in what is still a very difficult time for us.

“It just gives us so much encouragement and strength and so much comfort to know that he was loved so much by you all and that you take the time to share those memories and share comforting words with us … please don’t stop sending them, we appreciate them and thank you all so much for them.”

Julia has helped design the Regis Shield, which she hopes will become an annual event involving Cyrille’s former clubs. The family are also in the process of setting up a charity, the Cyrille Regis Legacy Trust, to which a portion of the proceeds of Saturday’s match will be given. “I’m so excited about the game that is taking place to honour and commemorate the life of Cyrille,” she said.

“It is fitting it is taking place between two clubs who Cyrille loved so much. I know it is going to be a great day and I am hoping you will all come out and support the day and help us support the life and legacy of Cyrille. We hope this is going to be an annual event.

“If you knew Cyrille you will know we want to ensure the charity bears his imprint and that the aims and objectives are around issues close to his heart.”